Owen Farrell working on tackling technique as World Rugby crack down on dangerous play

Farrell was guilty of reckless no-arms challenges against South Africa and Australia last autumn.

Published: 15 September 2019 - 9.00pm

By Press AssociationPublished: 15 September 2019 - 9.00pm

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England captain Owen Farrell has adjusted his tackle technique in fear of falling foul of World Rugby’s crackdown on dangerous play.

Farrell was guilty of reckless no-arms challenges against South Africa and Australia last autumn – escaping punishment for both – to raise concerns over his risky style of halting opponents.

World Rugby are determined to rid the game of contact to the head and in May issued a directive clarifying the process for officiating high tackles and shoulder charges, including the wider use of cards.